National Institute for Literacy
The Institute has funded development of research-based publications on adult reading instruction: Applying Research in Reading Instruction for Adults: First Steps for Teachers and Teaching Adults to Read: A Summary of Scientifically Based Research Principles.
It has contributed $10 million to a national research program to build understanding of how adults learn to read and how to teach reading to adults effectively.
Through a national survey, the Institute is exploring the relationships between adult literacy policies and student outcomes to learn more about the contributions policy can make.
It also has convened regional summits on health literacy and a national summit on strengthening instruction and improving performance management in community literacy initiatives.
The Institute is working with nationally recognized experts and stakeholders to plan new initiatives to fill gaps in knowledge and services in the areas of adult English language acquisition, adult literacy, workforce basic skills development, and education and employment outcomes for youth with learning disabilities.
The Department of Education ensures equal access to education and promotes educational excellence through coordination, management and accountability in Federal education programs. The Department works to supplement and complement educational efforts on all levels, encouraging increased involvement by the public, parents and students.
Program Accomplishments
The Institute has created the Literacy Information and Communications System (LINCS), on information and communication network on the Internet that provides information on effective literacy practices.
Uses and Use Restrictions
Projects cannot duplicate activities being performed by the Secretary of Education.
This program is governed by an interagency group made up of the Secretaries of Education, Health and Human Services, and Labor.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicant Eligibility
Public and private nonprofit institutions may apply.
Beneficiary Eligibility
State literacy resource centers, individuals, universities, and education organizations benefit.
Credentials/Documentation
None.
Aplication and Award Process
Preapplication Coordination
None.
This program is excluded from coverage under E.O.
12372.
Application Procedures
Application procedures are set forth in the announcements in the Federal Register or FebBizops.
Award Procedures
Announcements are made in the Federal Register or the Commerce Business Daily. Contact the headquarters office for details.
Deadlines
Dates are published in the Federal Register. Contact the headquarters office for particular project deadlines.
Authorization
Adult Education and Family Literacy Act, Section 242.
Range of Approval/Disapproval Time
The range is approximately 60-90 days.
Appeals
Appeals can be made directly to the Director of the National Institute for Literacy.
Renewals
If funding is available, renewals are possible for multi-year grants.
Assistance Considerations
Formula and Matching Requirements
None.
Length and Time Phasing of Assistance
The length of grants vary depending upon the type of project.
Post Assistance Requirements
Reports
Reporting requirements are included in grant documents.
Contact the program office for additional information.
Audits
Audits as required by EDGAR.
Records
In accordance with Section 443 of the General Education Provisions Act, grantees must maintain records for three years.
Financial Information
Account Identification
91-0400-0-1-501.
Obigations
(Grants and Contracts) FY 07 $3,989,000; FY 08 est $3,906,000; and FY 09 $3,906,000.
Range and Average of Financial Assistance
Varies considerable depending on the project.
Regulations, Guidelines, and Literature
Federal Acquisition Regulations and EDGAR apply.
Information Contacts
Regional or Local Office
None.
Headquarters Office
National Institute for Literacy, 1775 I Street, N.W., Washington, DC 20006. Contact: Director, NIL. Telephone: (202) 233-2025. E-mail address: www.nifl.gov.
Criteria for Selecting Proposals
For specific criteria on individual grants, the Institute should be contacted.
Social Entrepreneurship
Spotlight
The Social Innovators of 2014
For 2014, the Schwab Foundation for Social Entrepreneurship has recognized 37 individuals for their outstanding work in the field of social enterprise.
